APFS

The second trial on Mr. Suraj's case

2012-01-21T17:48:00.001+09:00

The second trial on Mr. Suraj's case (claim for damages against the Japanese government) was held on January 16 at 2 o'clock at courtroom 705 at Tokyo District Court.

The response of the government was exactly the same as the last trial: the judgment should be suspended until the criminal punishment is decided. We were disappointed at the government's insincere attitude toward the case. To this statement, the chief justice stated that the government must consider the case along with criminal punishment. From the next trial, we expect that the government make clear the problems of the case, and that we see some progress.

The next trial (the third trial) will be held on March 12 (Mon.) from 2 o'clock at courtroom 705.

Please continue to support us by observing the trial at court!

Exibition of Mr. Suraj's paintings

2011-12-07T16:24:00.002+09:00

We are going to hold the exibition of Mr. Suraj's paintings!

Mr.Suraj's paintings are going to be exibited at the cafe near Nishi-Ogikubo station for 2days
You can see what kind of person Mr. Suraj was and feel his heart through his works.

Also, you can enjoy African cuisine made by Mr. Suraj's wife. The profit made by African cuisine is going to be donated to Suraj Foundation.
Please join us and enjoy his works and African cuisine.

Date： 12/10（Sat）・11（Sun）

Place：KISSCAFE (5 mins walk from Nishi-Ogikubo station）

　　　　http://www.kiss-cafe.jp/

Getting to know their real aspect.....

2011-11-15T17:27:00.000+09:00

I’m Chika, a new volunteer. I joined APFS from this October as I was interested in problems of irregular immigrants in Japan. Also, I am writing a senior thesis on this topic now. Though I am new to APFS, I am always surprised at the variety of people coming here to talk and variety of problems they have.

Along with volunteering, I am conducting interviews to irregular immigrants with them face to face, I realized how inaccurate images most people have on them. They are far from the ‘criminal image’ portrayed on the media. Most people live without knowing what kind of problems those foreigners have, even though we are all living in the same community. I can’t help but wonder how we can tackle this reality.

Bangladesh concert

2011-11-15T17:23:00.001+09:00

Hi, I’m Ikeda as a volunteer for A.P.F.S. On November 6th I went to a concert with the representative Mr. Kato. The concert was held by Uttoron, a Bangladesh culture group in Japan.

Most of the audience was Bangladesh. I felt as if I were in a foreign country because of some women with the beautiful ethnic costumes or the speaking voice in a foreign language. On that day it was an Islamic holiday, so I often heard people said “Eid Mubarak!” (the greeting for the holiday).

The concert was consisted of Bangladesh ethnic songs, dances, and a drama. They showed Japanese translation on the screen. It helped us easily to understand the lyrics. They sang various songs from a famous singer’s song in Bangladesh to a Japanese traditional song “Yagi-bushi”. Not only the traditional dances and instruments of Bangladesh, but also surge of excitement coming from the audience gave a tremendous boost to the concert.

In this year, Uttoron has their 23rd concert. I am really amazed at knowing it. I hope the concert to continue into the future.

The first trial hearing is fixed!

2011-09-06T19:18:00.001+09:00

The date of the first trial hearing is fixed.

On October 31, 2011
In No. 705 law court room of Tokyo District Court

Your participation as courtroom audience is a power to determines truth.
We ask for your cooperation

An assembly to report the case of Mr.Suraj

2011-08-29T19:11:00.003+09:00

Yesterday an assembly to report the case of Mr.Suraj was over. A talk by attorney at law took place in front the audience of slightly less than 50 persons. The talk included progress report, problems of the case such as use of instrument of restraint out of court, intentional interruption of videography to record enforcement and outlook of the case.

Cousin of Mr.Suraj from Osaka, friends of Mr.Suraj, supporters were gathered and talked about memory before his death and thoughts of the case. His illustration displayed made his character recalled.

From now truth hunting in the suit against the Japanese government is expected. Timing of trial hearing can be seen in the latest website of APFS. Your participation as courtroom audience is highly appreciated.

Suit against the government of Japan filed over the death of Abubakar Awudu Suraj

2011-08-05T16:35:00.000+09:00

On the morning of August 5th, a suit against the government of Japan was filed over the wrongful death of Abubakar Awudu Suraj—a Ghanaian killed during a forced deportation last year. The lawsuit was filed by Suraj's widow and Suraj's mother claiming compensation from the Japanese government and nine Immigration officials who had accompanied Suraj at the time of his death.

Normally, such lawsuits are filed exclusively against the government. However, documents secured during the preservation of evidence clearly showed that the attending immigration officials had purchased nylon ties (which are not permitted for use as restraints) with their own money and then bound Suraj with them, and turned off the video camera recording their actions partway through the deportation. Such circumstances suggest that their acts of abuse were carried out wittingly—and not through negligence and, for that reason, it was decided that these officials should be charged with responsibility along with the state.

Incidentally, when we first filed the petition for the preservation of evidence, the Ministry of Justice had refused to submit interview and other documents relating to the actions of these immigration officials. It was only due to a subsequent breakthrough court order for disclosure that the documents were later released and the actions of the immigration officials came to light. The Ministry of Justice had effectively been trying to hide facts having a significant bearing on this case.

In the afternoon we held a press conference at the National Press Club in Tokyo. Many reporters joined the conference, including several from The Economist and other international media.

739 signatures in support of urgent prosecution

2011-06-24T16:31:00.000+09:00

Today, a petition with 739 signatures was submitted to the Chiba District Public Prosecutor's Office in an effort to push for the urgent prosecution of the case of Abubakar Awudu Suraj's death. Suraj's widow handed the petition directly to the prosecutor in charge, Murakami. Murakami only accepted the petition and did not comment on the likely handling of the case, but we are confident that the weight of the 739 signatures and the wishes that each represents were understood well by him.

Six months have already passed since investigation papers were officially delivered to prosecutors late last year. The signatures are expected to act as a push for prosecution.

We would like to thank everyone who signed the petition. The fact so many people helped Suraj's widow and her and her late husband's friends circulate the petition tells us that countless people are eager to see the truth of this case come to light.

An APFS staff member and Suraj's widow at the Chiba District Public Prosecutors Office

The collected petitions can be seen in the staff member's left hand

Currently, lawyers from our legal team are considering filing a civil suit against the Japanese government with regard to Suraj's death. We will continue to update you on developments at both APFS' blog and website. Thank you for your continued support!

The article from one volunteer (Ms. Son)

2011-06-16T20:12:00.000+09:00

Hello. This is Son who is volunteering in APFS.

Today, I went to immigration authorities in Shinagawa with Mr. Kato, the representative of APFS. I was so nervous the day before visiting here because it was first time to visit immigration authorities and have interviews with the detainees. There is the detention center on the overhead of the high building. I heard about the detention center that once they are taken in, they can’t go outside and act freely; so I experienced a feeling of strangeness that it exists in our usual life. The detainees whom I met have been in Japan for about 20 years, and they’ve never committed a crime except overstay. Taking arrested is an extraordinary experience for me, but they always live their life with the fear of taking arrested. Their sufferings are beyond my imagination and too much to bear. I strongly thought that I wish I would visit the detention center by myself and support as many people as I can.

After the International Symposium

2011-05-16T16:38:00.002+09:00

This is Son who has been volunteering at APFS from the end of last year. At this time, I had the most important role ever since I had started volunteering because I speak Korean. We invited the guest from Korea for this symposium, and I worked as her language assistant. I’m going to introduce about how the symposium was held as a volunteer.

On May 1^st, we held the international symposium, “Support the Lives of Foreign Citizens-from Viewpoint of the Experience of Japanese and Korean Support for “undocumented foreigners” (foreigners who live in Japan without residential status) -“. We invited the guest from Korean NGO, ”Asia Chang”, which supports the undocumented foreigners and reported the current situation of the supporting activity in both countries. First of all, the lawyer, Genichi Yamaguchi, traced the history of special permission for residence from viewpoint of the law. Secondly, the representative of APFS, Jotaro Kato, reported how APFS had been consulted on difficult problems and drew their road map. I keenly realized that there were so many problems that needs to be solved even if “The Guideline of the Special Permission for Residence” had been revised. The separation of family, The refuse for special permission for residence even the children grew up in Japan, putting foreigners who entered Japan in the irregular way into the custody, and the prejudice against them…I acutely aware of the necessity of undertaking whatever I can do.

Thirdly, the member of Korean NGO, Young A. Lee, talked about their activities. Surprisingly, Korean supporting activity is much further than Japanese one. They supports immigrants actively such as holding language lessons for immigrant, running portal site and sustaining community. On the other hand, comparing to Japan, the number of undocumented foreigners in Korea is higher than Japan and children whose parents are undocumented can’t get graduation certificate. I felt that both countries should cooperate each other to solve their own problems and overcome them.

Lastly, the reporter, Yukiko Sazanami, reported the lives of children who were deported to Philippines from Japan. I noticed that the theory children can be accustomed to new environment because they have high adaptation ability is wrong. They face the obstacles of language, culture and making friends. Under such a hard environment, children strive toward comfortable niche. “I’m going to be a bridge between Japan and Philippines someday”. I felt chagrin and hope for the future at the same time.

After the panel discussion, Professor Watado gave chance to a girl who was struggling to gain special permission for residence. Ms. Mary Jane Parnes Garcia who gained special permission for residence at last cheered her up. “How hard it is, how long it takes, the day we all become happy must come. Hang on together by that day.” Everyone in the symposium must have gotten energy from her.

It’s probably difficult to perfectly understand their pain. However, I’m going to face what I can do for them and do my best until the day everyone feels happy for real comes.

The article from one volunteer (Ms. Nagashima)

2011-05-12T16:38:00.001+09:00

In A.P.F.S. , various volunteers join activities. Here is the article of one volunteer.

It’s been passed 7 years since I knew the Immigration Bureau. I saw the letter which was written by the foreigner who had been deported in the eastern Japan entrance center. I read a few letters written in French, and I got shocked that there is such a place in the developed country. There are many people who are deported for a long time and get sick just because of overstay. They need to prepare for a lot of money and get through complicated procedure to get provisional release status. Even if they get provisional release status, they are not allowed to work. They might be put in custody again.

At that time, I often saw the news about the ship which is filled with many African people arrived at the beach in Italy. Some people became a statistic. In Paris, there are often demonstrations by undocumented foreigners. However, in Japan, there are few people who know the Immigration Bureau even if there are many Foreigners . Therefore, probably most people don’t understand what I am talking about.

However, in Suginami where I live, the consultations for foreigners was held for free. I feel the government starts getting involved in this problem little by little.

I live in Japan with NGO like APFS, so I'm going to try to listen to foreigners’ suffering who live in Japan to understand each other.

On the Provision of 500 Meals of Bangladeshi Curry (Hassan)

2011-05-02T21:05:00.000+09:00

Shajahan Baitalik (Hassan) (Director, A. P. F. S. / Padma)

※This post is renewed with the link to Mr. Hassan's shop "Padma". You can see the link from →here← (Japanese).

○ My motivation to go to the disaster area

I wanted to do what I can. No matter how much we think “it must be horrible”, we do not understand what disaster victims feel. We cannot understand. How hard it is to have one’s family die. It is very hard. You cannot go home, take a bath and go to sleep. How can it be? For such people (disaster victims), I want to do something, anything, whatever I can to tell them “keep on fighting”. This is where I work (Padma: Italian & Bangladeshi restaurant), so this (providing meals) is what I can do the best. I wished that everyone had something warm to eat just for once so I can show my sympathy.

○ Not for the interviews, but for the disaster victims

First I thought to go (to the site) without even saying my country of origin or my religion. I did not want to say. I do not do this for publicity. I told to interviewers too that “I have not come for interview” and turned them down. I told them to ask questions while I kept on working. (I came to help disaster victims,) not for that (the interviews), but as a same human being.

○ Together with everyone

There are also people who say (to me) that I should leave Japan but we are in this together, so I only leave when all the Japanese (leave).

○ Happy, for the first time in my life

Happiness. I felt happiness for the first time in my life. I have not slept for about three days. I was very tense and the hard work was also a great deal. I drove (the car) all the way and back, so my body was in a messy condition. (After the project when I went home,) I took a bath and tried to drink a can of beer but I was so tired that I could not. My body was.

I slept for four hours and went back to work. The weariness of my body was all gone. Why? Because I am happy. I am happy, so I recovered from the fatigue in an instant. Usually when I drive for a long time, my feet start to hurt but this time I did not feel anything at all.

All the elderly people keep hanging on under such painful circumstances. It is cold. There is no food. They are in a situation where they cannot go outside. It is snowing. They are eating onigiri (rice balls) only, onigiri with no flavor, just plain rice. (Having seen that, at the disaster area) I could not eat from morning. At the same time, we are living in such luxury. Thinking of that, I could not eat. That (when we finished distributing meals) was the first time that I first ate the onigiri I got (from the disaster victims).

Preparing meals for 500 people was not difficult for me as a professional, what was different is that until now I cooked for customers. Customers eat, they pay. It is business, so if it sells I am lucky. If it does not, that is just the way it is. This time, if there is any kind of mistake, if something is late, there is no second chance. I promised 500 meals, I said I would do it and it is OK, I took responsibility. I was extremely tense; it was a huge pressure because it was such a situation that no failures were allowed whatever the reason of incapability. This kind of experience was for the first time. I could overcome this, so I am happy now. Until now, I have never thought of what happiness is but (this time) I could get a taste of happiness. I will definitely never forget that elderly people and children too asked for a second portion and were very happy.

○ My gratitude to Ms. Mega (prefectural employee coordinating for us locally) and the employees of the city hall

I think it is not strange if I say we owe it to Mr. Kato’s friend, Ms. Mega; she did the most important job. It really helped. If it was not for her, we could not find back roads, since it is not in the car navigation system and there was no one to ask. She provided us information and came at six o’clock (to the interchange); she did not sleep (too much for sure). I am grateful for that. I am also grateful for people at the local city hall for letting us come. Otherwise we could not have gone.

○ To the citizens of Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture

I think it is devastating without all kinds of goods, without family, without friends, so it is not uncommon to feel that there is nowhere to go or lose one’s desire to live.

We all have to keep on fighting not only for ourselves. Everybody is supporting you to give you strength. For everybody all over Japan, for everybody all over the world too, you have to start everything from zero again because I think you are strong. You can overcome it for sure. Believe it and work hard. Thank you very much.

○ Applauded at Matsusaki Elementary School

Thank you all. Being applauded was extremely embarrassing. It should be the other way around (normally, I should applaud to all of them), should not it? It was very embarrassing. They (disaster victims) can complain me (living in Tokyo), they can push me. While I live a luxurious life in Tokyo, they (disaster victims) have to face such horrors and (still) they applauded me. It was embarrassing.

○ About buying up things

People (in Tokyo) buy too much, they are in a panic. They (in the disaster area) get only one onigiri (to eat). People (in Tokyo) are buying things saying there is no this or that. Even if they do nothing (any supporting activities), I wish if they would just go (first) and see it (the disaster area) once. I think they would realize the wrong (buying up things) they do.

○ From now on

I would like to cook or help dismantling there.

If there was anyone to look after my business for me (in the meantime)…

The article from one volunteer (Ms. Ikeda)

2011-04-28T16:17:00.000+09:00

In A.P.F.S. , various volunteers join activities. Here is the article of one volunteer.

I’m Yuko Ikeda, doing the volunteer work at A.P.F.S. since November 2010.

The reason why I started working as a volunteer is because I studied about foreigners in Japan when I was a university student. The summer of my third year in college, I visited Nonprofit Organization in Toyota, Aichi prefecture where I was born, and I was so surprised at seeing a lot of Brazilians living in that area. After that experience, I took interested in how many foreign people live in Japan, or why they are in Japan. Then I began to study about them at college. I was being a tutor for exchange students, also doing the volunteer work for Japanese class in my town. After I graduated, I wanted to do something for aliens in Japan since I had lots chance to be involved with foreign residents. Fortunately I found A.P.F.S. and started the volunteer work there.

Now I come to the office once a week. My job is mainly to write up the papers, and to translate Japanese documents into English. I have visited the lawyer with a foreign consulter. Almost all papers are about residence visa status. At first there were lots words which I didn’t know, but gradually I get to understand what they mean and under what situation the foreigners are.

It has been about 6months since I started doing the volunteer work. Working at A.P.F.S makes me think. I realized that it was not easy that people live in the foreign countries. I hope that more Japanese begin to know the situations of foreign residents in Japan. I feel that there are not a lot of things which I can do, but I’d love to do my best as a volunteer.

On the Provision of 500 Meals of Bangladeshi Curry (Jotaro Kato)

2011-03-29T21:07:00.005+09:00

Jotaro Kato (Representative Director, A. P. F. S.)

At A. P. F. S., we are engaged in our activities under the ideology of “crossing borders and living together”. This activity was exactly what A. P. F. S. is trying to achieve.

This project became reality from the strong desire of Mr. Hassan (Bangladeshi origin), one of our directors that he wanted to “help regardless of country of origin”. There was this tremendous pressure from him (J), so the project to distribute 500 meals of Bangladeshi curry came to form with a surprising speed. According to the schedule, we had the planning and started with coordinating on March 24^th (Thu), the final decision and preparations were made on March 25^th (Fri), we left on March 26^th (Sat) and the distribution itself took place on March 27^th (Sun). I have to think again that we could realize this project in such a short period of time only because we are an NGO/NPO.

First of all Mr. Hassan and Mrs. Hitomi Katsuta, people at Padma (an Italian & Bangladeshi restaurant) made the preparations without any sleep and rest. Their teamwork and enthusiasm was really something.

Further on, this project came to life thanks to a friendship from my student years. Ms. Tomoe Mega, an employee of Iwate Prefecture made all kinds of coordination locally. Ms. Mega is a former classmate of mine from college when I studied international relations. On the 25^th (Fri) I was on the phone with her almost the whole day. She responded to our wishes, so coordination was probably difficult but she kept her smile till the end. I am truly grateful to her.

I took the liberty to walk around the evacuation shelter and talk to disaster victims.

○ An old lady whose husband was taken by the waves but tries to survive with all her heart up to his share as well.

○ A junior high school student who rushed all the way from Hokkaido to help his or her disaster stricken relatives.

○ Members of the town association who are working night and day devoted to the people of the community even if they were hit by the disaster themselves.

Probably it is very difficult for them now but they still communicated with us as hard as they could.

It is said that life at the shelter is stressful but people were cooperating, making a circle and comforting each other. I felt the strength of the citizens of Ofunato. They can recover for sure. That is what I thought. By the time I realized, I was encouraged myself.

At the end of our curry distribution, I naturally muttered the following words to everyone. “At the time of this national disaster, all of us have to join forces. Tokyo is also making efforts. Let us work on it together.” Problems faced by Tokyo such as the nuclear plant crisis, the planned power outage and the buying up panic are not small either. However, I strongly think that we must not forget about Tohoku which suffered the most damage.

I believe what we need now is the idea of “crossing borders and living together”. There are those like Mr. Hassan who thinks of Japan like no one else does. If we end now, then it was merely for our self satisfaction. We will think and carry out what A. P. F. S. can do next.

“Originally Ofunato is very beautiful. You have to come after we recovered.” Many people told us so. It made my feelings stronger to go back for sure.

On the Provision of 500 Meals of Bangladeshi Curry (Hitomi Katsuta)

2011-03-29T21:03:00.004+09:00

Hitomi Katsuta (A. P. F. S. / Padma)

Including me, I think people who watch TV in Tokyo all have an urge to “do something (go to the site and help)” but it cannot be realized so easily. If you are in Tokyo you feel awfully worthless. You do not know what you should do. I am grateful that I had the chance to go like this.

- Were preparations difficult?

It was a great amount, there was simply no time (departure was decided on March 25^th and we left on March 26^th) and the circulation of goods is also limited, so the preparation of ingredients was quite difficult. It was difficult for me but there are other people who are in much more trouble than me, so it was not such a big deal. However, if it had been an ordinary (for-profit) event or job, I think I could not have done it.

- How did you felt after departure until you arrived to the site?

A part of me was excited. It was a long drive but my body did not get tired. Though, I was worried because of the fuel (limited supply), because we were heavily loaded and the road was bad. I was also worried because if we had not made it (to the site) in time, it would have been a big inconvenience to the locals.

- What did you feel when you saw the state of the disaster on site?

Although I had seen the circumstances on TV every day, when I saw it in real … how should I put it … what was it … what can I say … it was shocking. We only think that it must be difficult but people on the site have lost everything they had put together until now through their life, they have to clean up and secure a home for themselves. I think it is a task what makes one wonder. I might not be of great help but I thought if there was anything I could do.

- Your biggest impression from the site?

The mutual helping spirit of local people. In Tokyo, we complain about the buying up of water or that “there is no rice” or that “there is no milk”. For example, there is no water there either, still if they (people on the water supply truck) say that “I give you two bottles of water”, locals help each other by saying “one bottle is enough, give it to others”; it was very impressive. Meanwhile, Tokyo feels like a contest (for goods). I was deeply moved by this mutual help (on the site). For example, I felt grateful for the welcoming attitude of people there when they gave us pocket warmers, shio-musubi (salty rice balls) and seagull eggs at the shelter. It was rather us who were encouraged and supported by them.

- Message to the citizens of Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture

Even if there were oil stoves, the gym’s floor was very cold. Already two weeks have passed, so the initial excitement was over too and fatigue is supposed to start to kick in, still, even if this all happened, most of the locals are thinking positively, so I want them to go on and hope that I was a little bit of help. I think they are all very humble (towards supporters), so I think they could as well complain more.

- What would you like to do in the future?

We see it every day on TV but I could go right to the site and look at the circumstances, so I think it is up to me to tell others here what I saw, heard or felt. Now, I have put up a photograph (in the restaurant I manage) and whenever I speak to the customers they want to hear about it. If only I could somewhat communicate it to people here. If I had the chance, I would like to provide meals again too.

One year after the death of Mr. Suraj

2011-03-24T12:33:00.002+09:00

With March 22^nd, exactly one year has passed since Mr. Suraj died during deportation last year.

I knew him only for a short while but even I could not help but remember him. His wife probably recalls this one year together with a great number of other memories.

In my memory, Mr. Suraj talked peacefully with his wife even when it was during the visiting hours at his detention. He was always worried about his wife’s health and handed her letters written in Japanese. This scene reflected well their long and harmonious relationship.

The photograph is from a gathering held on March 22^nd where his wife and friends commemorated him. I think it is a wonderful picture.

* The scheduled submission of demand letters to the Chiba District Attorney’s office was delayed. We still need your support to the collection of demand letters（http://apfs.jp/eng/event20110323_881.php). If the new submission day is decided on, we will let you know either at this BLOG or on the APFS homepage.

A march for Mr. Suraj!

2011-03-06T12:32:00.001+09:00

Today from twelve o’clock, we marched in Shibuya to demand a swift prosecution by trial in the case of Mr. Suraj and to let ordinary people know about it.

In the warm and sunny weather, altogether almost seventy participants from various countries such as Japan, the USA, Pakistan and Iran took part. During the march, we handed out flyers to passers-by and felt a good response. We had spontaneous participants and donations to the Suraj Fund etc., so it turned out to be a successful march…

This time, a friend of Mr. Suraj took the microphone and the lead making appeals. At APFS, we support all kinds of foreign migrants but it is always most inspiring when their friends broaden the circle of support. Together with Mr. Suraj’s wife, his friends and a team of lawyers working on the case, APFS will continue its efforts to unravel the truth about Mr. Suraj’s case!

“Suraj Case Report” at the Chiba District Attorney’s Office & On a march

2011-02-24T12:29:00.000+09:00

Regarding Mr. Suraj’s case, we reported here too that the documents of ten immigration employees were sent to the district attorney’s office. Almost two months have passed since then but there are no developments… At APFS, together with Mr. Suraj’s wife and a team of lawyers engaged in the case, we went to the Chiba District Attorney’s Office under such circumstances to inquire about the proceedings (however since it was only allowed to her and her attorney, APFS could not attend). Mr. Murakami, the prosecutor working on the case, informed us but conclusively no new information or future outlook was revealed. The reason was that it is too early for that. We are really sorry that the office does not seem to feel the urge in comparison with cases where they restrain suspects. We are planning to make an appeal to the district attorney’s office for swift prosecution by trial soon.

It will be one year after Mr. Suraj’s death next month. If we are asked how many people know about the case (even if they know about it, most people do not know what followed), we only feel worthless as the support organization.

On March 6^th, to let many people know about Mr. Sura’s case, we will hold a march with Mr. Suraj’s wife and his friends according to the following (we have announced it on the APFS homepage too). Please participate if you can!

Date & time: March 6^th (Sun) 2011, 12:00-14:00 (uncertain for the ending)

Place: from Jingu-dori Park (10 minutes on foot from the East Gate of Shibuya station, next to Miyashita Park)

Mr. SURAJ’S Case Sent to the Prosecutor: Press Conference

2011-01-12T17:19:00.002+09:00

Since the documents of ten immigration employees were sent to the prosecutor’s office at the end of the year, a press conference was held from 5:15 PM, January 11th by Mr. SURAJ’s widow, the lawyers association working on the case and APFS. It may be a little odd to hold a conference following the sending of the documents. However, since there have been no developments in the case for nine months, we fear that the case will be forgotten, so we decided to hold the conference.

Mr. SURAJ’s widow said that she is happy with the fact itself that the case was sent to the prosecutor’s office, but she also expressed her discontent over the prolonged investigation. Furthermore, during questioning by the police she was persistently asked if Mr. SURAJ had any preexisting condition and she felt the intent of the police to stress that the reason for Mr. SURAJ’s death might have been a chronic illness.

Additionally, the lawyers association reported that at the end of the year they were kept waiting for more hours during the preservation of the evidence at the Ministry of Justice (preserving evidence such as the videotape taken at Mr. SURAJ’s deportation so that it would not be disposed of or altered). Suddenly the appointment itself was postponed (it is quite illogical to postpone in case of preservation of evidence) and finally only half of the requested evidence were handed over.

There are many obstacles, but we believe that the truth will be recovered and continue with or activities. We trust in your continuous concern and support.

Case Sent to the Prosecutor’s Office

2010-12-28T17:15:00.002+09:00

There were some developments in the case of Mr. SURAJ.

Nine months have passed since Mr. SURAJ (Ghana nationality) died during deportation in March. Half a year after we filed our complaint in June, the report of ten Immigration Bureau employees was sent to the Chiba District Prosecutor’s Office on December 27th under suspicion of “assault and cruelty resulting in death by special public officials”.

On December 28th, it appeared in several forums of the Japanese media.

Tokyo Shinbun page 25 (a fairly big article)

Web articles in Asahi, Yomiuri, Sankei
http://www.asahi.com/national/update/1228/TKY201012280141.html　
http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/national/news/20101228-OYT1T00303.htm
http://sankei.jp.msn.com/affairs/crime/101228/crm1012281120006-n1.htm

Although the investigation was prolonged and there have been almost no movements recently, there seem to be some real developments in 2011 to recover the truth. We hope that we can expect our reader’s interest and support in the future too.

Participating in APFS Christmas Party

2010-12-15T12:57:00.002+09:00

My name is Makita, a volunteer member of APFS

Christmas Party hosted by APFS was held in Green Hall of Itabashi-ku on Sunday December 19, 2010. Participants were approximately 80 people from the members of APFS from various countries and their families and APFS members. The party started with an opening address of Mr. Kato, the representative of APFS followed by toast and dinner. It was a rare chance to enjoy various and tasty ethnic food at the same time. The party continued such programs as bingo game, musical chair game of children, present from Santa Clause to children, musical chair game of adults, newspaper game, orange dance, and present exchange. The party ended with a picture taking of all the participants. Everybody enjoyed very much supported by MC warmed up the party with an excellent performance.

I realized great contribution of APFS having seen members who are obviously happy having received APFS’ support. This opportunity encouraged me to further support APFS as a volunteer staff member.

Exchange opinions with Shin’ai-juku

2010-11-08T17:31:00.000+09:00

Hi, this is Yamane, a stuff member of volunteers.

On November 8th, people from Shin’ai-juku visited A.P.F.S and exchanged views with A.P.F.S staff.

Shin’ai-juku, they offer the gathering, remedial class, mother tongue class,　Japanese language class, mostly for the foreign children. They also give counsel for foreign residents about their rights, education, life and so on. They do these community-based activities with a central focus on Kanagawa prefecture.

For me, the most impressive activity was that Shin’ai-juku provided aftercare for repatriated children, with going to their countries.I learned a lot from the stories expressed by the staff of Shin’ai-juku and A.P.F.S. Thank you so much.

After the conversation, we went to the Italian restaurant near the office, owned by Bangladeshi. We had a lot of fun together with having beer, cocktails and delicious foods. The members of Shin’ai-juku were friendly and fun.Thank you very much.

Asian Fair

2010-11-08T17:27:00.000+09:00

Hi, this is Yamane, a staff member of volunteers.

On November 7th, “The 16th Asian Fair” was held.

I participated in this event with my friend as a guest. I attended Asian Fair for the first time. I had a lot of fun.

At the open space, stands of 8 Asian countries were lined up. I ate a lot of foods like “BIGO”,a dessert from Philippines, or spring rolls at Thai food stand.

On the stage, people showed enjoyable dances and touching musics, such as Bangladeshi folk music or folk dances of Thailand, Burma, Philippines. I enjoyed those unfamiliar Asian world.

Also, Japanese “Chanbara”! “Chanbara” was rare and interesting for me.

As for the rest, I had fun with buying some folk crafts at the flea market.
My friend also enjoyed today. Thank you very much.

Opened the Class “Learning Japanese/Mother Tongue with Family”

2010-10-03T17:22:00.000+09:00

Hi, this is Yamane, a staff member of volunteers.

On October 3rd, we held the first class of “Japanese Language classes for parents / Tagalog Language/Culture classes for children”. This is for Filipino families.

Mothers learned Japanese and their children learned Tagalog. I participated the Japanese class as a volunteer of teaching Japanese. On that day, we studied and discussed about the elementary school in Phillipine and Japan in the class.

I was impressed by Teacher’s day in Phillipine, which is for respecting teachers. This is not in Japan. Also, they teach all classes in English without a mother tongue class. They have sport festival like in Japan, but they don’t have offering lunch.

All mothers are active and eager to participate in conversation, practice writing Hiragana and talk about the school in Filipine. It was a great day and I’m sure that I got more lessons than them even if I was a teaching volunteer.

Thank you.

Bus Tour

2010-08-22T21:41:00.000+09:00

Hi, my name is Igarashi. I’ve started A.P.F.S. volunteering since May.

In Sep.21st and 22nd, A.P.F.S staff, some volunteers, A.P.F.S members and their families were participated in a bus tour held once a year. We went to KUMOMI hot springs in western-Izu where a beautiful blue sea spread out as far as the eyes could see. I expected that everyone was looking forward to going there as hot humid weather continues in Tokyo.

As for schedule,
First day, we headed for western-Izu really early morning, having a lunch together in a tour bus. Arriving in Izu, we went to Hakachizaki Garden to see Japanese Macaque Monkeys. We had a great time hanging out with monkey and taking pictures there. After we were heading back for “Chouemon”, the place we stayed, we had a party at night, drinking and eating a variety of great sea food.

Second day, having a breakfast, we went to a beach a couple minutes away from Choemon. We had so many exciting events such as a piñata-like game with a watermelon, beach volleyball, and beach flag. After that, we went to have a Seafood bowl famous as most delicious one in western-Izu.

In the past two days, we spent such a great time without any accidents. I’m really glad that exchange between A.P.F.S members and volunteers have become very active recently.

I hope that A.P.F.S will unite more strongly as having many exciting events and getting along each other.

Report of the donation for Mr.Suraj

2010-08-09T20:44:00.000+09:00

This is the middle report of the donation for Mr. SURAJ.

Thanks for everyone, His wife was able to go to Ghana for his funeral. That was first time for her to meet his parents and they were so mournful each other by his unexpected death. However, in this trip,she could actually see his hometown.

These trip costs three hundred eighty-six thousand dollars. And so far, we collected three hundred thirty-two thousand dollars. We are still are asking for donation to fill into the gap.

Donation for Mr. SURAJ
A financial institution: Japan　Post　Bank　Co.,　Ltd.
A member :A.P.F.S.
Account Number: 00180-1-79158

*Please fill in SURAJ DONATION

We hope that we will get many requests for this donation.

Free medical checkup

2010-08-05T17:46:00.003+09:00

My name is Nichisato. On August 1, I as a staff member of volunteers participated in an event of free medical checkup for foreigners. The event was held in Green Hall of Itabashi Ward during 10:30am to 4:00pm (reception closed at 3:00pm) in cooperation with another volunteer group of “SHARE.” The free health check is an annual event regularly held this time of the year. APFS acted as an interpreter and a consultant regarding visa, whereas SHARE carried out the medical check up.

My duty was to set up a booth and to welcome examinees at the reception to lead the way including miscellaneous works.

I notice that the atmosphere was amiable as examinees and staff members are smiling. I was glad to notice that examinees seem much satisfied as they were giving us a thanks word and making donations.

I took a checkup as my own experience as a volunteer staff member and found it comfortable, despite free checkup and minimum check items with inexpensive equipments.

Checkup follow was; reception followed by urine analysis, filling in the questionnaire, X-ray, height and body weight, blood pressure, dental checkup, others (eyes and heart) and medical and nutrition consultation (though I did not consult). Therefore the contents were substantial. Since foreigners were targeted, some foreign languages besides English were on the sign boards and interpreters were standing by in order to be foreigner friendly.

I was pleased to have made valuable experience, although I was some how puzzled due to first experience. I will make further efforts to contribute to help people in APFS.

Participating in a workshop for practical support for refugees

2010-07-17T16:54:00.002+09:00

Hello. My name is Jinno, a staff member of volunteers.

I participated in a workshop for practical support for refugees held on July 17. Mr. Katsunori Koike made a clear and comprehensive lecture.
The workshop started with a case study; three actual cases were presented by Mr. Koike. Participants tried to verify for approval as refugees.

Afterwards Mr. Koike explained if the three cases are in compliance with international laws and domestic laws and how the problems were practically solved. At the end of session participants reviewed the cases.

I was very interested in learning after detailed explanations using application format that certain limits are caused by unclear definitions of refugees in refugee law and deportation and repatriation are strictly prohibited under even in such limits, and there are reluctancy and complexity in application for refugees at immigration office at airports in Japan since frequency of such cases are extremely low.

At the end of workshop Mr. Koike was kept busy in answering questions raised by participants until time up.

The workshop helped me fully understand support of refugees although I had no knowledge before. Since the workshop was so fruitful that I would like to further study to deepen my understanding. Thanks to Mr. Koike I made a valuable experience in the workshop which also gave me a chance to talk to people who are practically handling refugee support.

Vice-President Inauguration Party

2010-07-16T18:51:00.014+09:00

Mr. Masaki Yamada, who has long worked with APFS as the consulting lawyer, has assumed the post as the vice-president of the Tokyo Bar Association. Mr. Yamada worked actively for the Action for Special Permission for Residence done by APFS during the early 1990’s.

The celebration party was held at a Chinese Restaurant in Ginza. Prominent lawyers who also advocate the protection of human rights showed up at the party, sharing numerous intriguing stories “off the record.”

APFS works hand in hand with many lawyers in tackling issues regarding the human rights of foreigners. We plan to preserve this connection with legal consultants and continue our activities in order to change society into a place where foreigners could live comfortably.

Criminal Complaint & A Silent Return Home

2010-06-30T18:47:00.000+09:00

On Monday, June 28th, APFS lodged a criminal complaint against Mr. Suraj’s case. 3 months had passed since the case occurred on March 22nd. We were exasperated by the fact that not even the transfer for custory had been completed.

The video of the press conference after the criminal complaint can be viewed online for a limited time: http://video.aol.jp/video-detail/-/3434121529

Also, Daily Yomiuri has covered the case and placed it in the magazine as a special report: http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/20100629TDY01T03.htm

On the 29th, Mr. Suraj’s body made a silent return home to Ghana. Though not on the same flight, his wife departed for Ghana as well. The donation we received for the Suraj Foundation was passed on to Mrs. Suraj to cover her travel expenses (Thank you very much for the \97000 donated by June 28th). Due to the unexpectedly early departure, the donations we collected were not enough to cover the full expenses, causing Mrs. Suraj to borrow money from her friends to cover the rest. We would like to ask for your continued support and contributions to the Suraj Foundation so that we could assume the full expenses. Thank you for your cooperation.

Supporting the Victims of Human Trafficking -After participating in the workshop-

2010-06-28T11:57:00.005+09:00

Hello. I am Yamane, a volunteer at APFS.

On Saturday, June 26th, I participated in the workshop, “IOM’s support for the victims of human trafficking,” held by the human trafficking task force coordinators from the IOM (International Organization for Migration) office in Japan. To be honest, I hadn’t known anything about human trafficking in Japan, as I thought it was a wide-spread crime outside of Japan.

I listened to stories of actual cases of human trafficking. A Filipino woman in her twenties was forced a fake marriage, was coercively taken to Japan from Manila, and worked under duress at a bar. A Thai woman (also in her twenties) entered Japan without knowing about her use of a fake passport and was forced to commit prostitution. I learned that many victims of human trafficking (for sexual and labor exploitation) suffer in Japan, and that they are in urgent need for help.

However, the low visibility of human trafficking in the Japanese society has caused a lag in the distribution of support, and we also lack government efforts and public shelters.

I have decided to inform the people around me of what I learned at the workshop.
I hope to participate in a workshop again. Thank you very much.

Speaking with students from Ochanomizu University

2010-06-26T11:10:00.006+09:00

Professor Keichi Kumagai and seven students from Ochanomizu

University came to visit the APFS office!

APFS Representative Jotaro Kato began by introducing APFS’s history as an organization that has worked together with non-regular migrants to help them overcome countless difficulties. He also went on to discuss our current activities and future prospects, from our vantage as a rapidly changing organization.

Then, one of APFS’s members Garcia-san talked about his desire to live in Japan, and his feelings for his family here. The students surely saw how deeply Garcia-san has connected with Japanese people over the course of his life here in Japan, especially when he became teary-eyed as he recalled Japanese people who had helped him in the past.

Students asked a number of impressive questions such as:

"How does APFS interact with and gain the understanding of the community?"

"Why would some people be denied Special Residence Permits, even when they meet specific guidelines?"

"Do problems arise when the primary language of parents is different than that of their children?”

We were very impressed by the sharp minds of the students and, ultimately, our time together was very educational for us all!

Nothing would make us happier than if this should lead to a greater understanding of and interest in non-regular migrants in Japan.

We would like to extend our gratitude to Professor Kumagai and everybody at Ochanomizu University!

Donations needed to help Suraj & his family

2010-06-13T11:08:00.000+09:00

Abubakar Awudu Suraj died during a forced deportation on March 22, 2010. Right now preparations are being made to send his body to Ghana.

APFS is asking all our friends and members for donations so that Suraj’s widow may accompany her husband’s body on the trip to Ghana.

The Ministry of Justice has agreed to pay expenses for sending Suraj’s body, but they are refusing to pay for his widow’s accompaniment. Suraj’s widow not only suddenly lost the husband she shared her life with for more than 20 years, she has been unable to learn of the circumstances of his death. How cruel that she be denied this one chance to accompany him to his country and see his family.

Please help us see that Suraj’s widow will be able to accompany her husband on his final journey home and be there when he is reunited with his family.

Please send donations to:
Bank Name: Japan Post Bank
Account Holder: APFS
Account Number: ００１８０－１－７９１５
*Please write “Donations for Suraj’s family” on the form.

Yonsei University Associate Professor visits APFS

2010-06-07T11:07:00.005+09:00

Yonsei University Associate Professor Seung-Mi Han, introduced to APFS by Professor Ichiro Watado of Meisei University, came to our office to speak with us as a part of her current survey.

Equivalent to Keio University in Japan, Yonsei University is known as one of Korea’s most popular universities.

The discussion centered on APFS consultations and activities as well as our work building relationships with local governments.

Professor Han showed particular interest in the creation of a movement in Japan for normalizing non-regular migrants.

We have the good fortune of welcoming many researchers and students at APFS’s office.　We hope to see more and more people showing an interest as we continue our work into the future.

Visitations at the Ibaraki detention center

2010-06-02T11:06:00.001+09:00

Today, we attended to some visitation appointments and applications for temporary release at the Immigration Bureau in Ibaraki.

We visited three people: Iranian “A”-san, Pakistani “M”-san, and Nigerian “G”-san. All three have been kept in detention for a long time (6+ months). “M”-san has lost roughly 17 kilos since entering and we noticed a dramatic increase in gray hairs. “M”-san, who also has a Japanese spouse and children, talked about how difficult it has been to say goodbye to the children each time they visit.

“A”-san said, while pointing to scar on his forehead, that a few days ago, “I did something pretty stupid and started banging my head on the wall."

The psychological impact of these indefinite detentions is very scary. Just a few months ago a Brazilian committed suicide in this very facility. Apparently on the day of the suicide the Brazilian was talking to his family on the phone and had asked his child, "Where would you like to go when I get my temporary release?" And yet that night he committed suicide (“A”-san shared this story.)

Is it necessary to push these men and women into such a mental state? We cannot help but feel angry.

Attended in the 60th anniversary of Yuuza Oyama arcade encouragement Union

2010-06-01T14:05:00.000+09:00

I am Kato, representative of APFS. Thank you for always looking at this blog.

I attended in the the 60th anniversary of Yuuza Oyama arcade encouragement Union on May 18th, Tuesday night. APFS has realized that we aims at being a community-based NGO and participated in the arcade since 2009.
It was a great ceremony that a ward headman of Itabasiku, local members of the House of Representatives and other prominent people got together.

We looked back the history of these six decades and confirmed to make this arcade more revitalized.
The average of age was perhaps forty five years old so, I was overwhelmingly younger among them.
The arcade owners kindly told me when and what kind of events are going on and what is necessary for being acquainted with the community.

Then, we are probably able to open branches in summer festival (so-called “Bonodori”), the arcade holds, this year too.
The “Asian” color will be added into the arcade.
APFS may be going to open Burmese and Pilipino food branches.

People who wear Yukata will be sent out so that it will be very suitable if you who want to see the fascinating arcade.
The summer festival will be on July 31st and August 1st.
We will let you know on this web cite if the details are decided.

The bowling game and drinking party

2010-06-01T13:59:00.001+09:00

This is Igarashi, one of volunteers.

On May 30th, Sunday, the bowling game and drinking party were held at the Rosa Kaikan, Ikebukuro. Twenty four people of APFS stuffs, volunteers and foreign members and their families got together and it became a day, full of their smiles.

In the bowling game, we were divided depend on the lanes and the foreigners, especially, seemed to be really excited to play the games. It was said that the winners will be recognized and given a gift in the drinking party so that everyone were excited. The higher rank was a fight between the Pilipino and Japanese.

Also, nine teen of them participated in the drinking party and were greatly excited as well as the bowling game.
It was really impressive that APFS stuffs, volunteers and foreigners and their families equally drunk, ate, sang and communicated together well. In the Karaoke, foreign members sang Japanese songs and Japanese sang English songs. Such figures told me that this gathering also meant significant time as a cultural exchange.

In fact, I had been a little bit anxious about foreign members before I went there. It was because I was captured by the imagines that foreigners in Japan must be sad and poor.
However, it was overthrown when I met them at the bowling game. I faced their smile and positive mind, and received so much power from them rather than giving them my power. Then, this time I realized that my task for the future is to have more interests about them and think about them more deeply

I think everyone got closed more than before threw this bowling game and drinking party.
I, also, hope that we can grow together by understanding this meeting as a good opportunity.

Please send in your letters of protest!!

2010-04-22T12:35:00.002+09:00

Are you concerned over the mysterious death of Abubakar Awudu Suraj? If so, APFS wants you to write and send your own letter of protest to Japan’s Ministry of Justice!

You can see a translation of our protest statement here.
Please tell the Ministry of Justice what you think, by following the link below:

https://www.moj.go.jp/mojmail/kouhouinput.php
Or send a fax to: 03-3592-7393

To the right, we have posted a letter that Suraj wrote, illustrated, and sent to his while he was still in detention. His gentle nature truly shines through (translation below)…
Thank you for taking action!

Translation of Suraj’s letter:

How are you? I’m sorry I haven’t written lately. Thank you for all that you’ve done. Let’s stick through this together. Your voice sounded strange when we last talked, and I wonder if it’s because you’ve been thinking so much and worrying. However, it seems to have gotten better, so I feel a bit relieved. It’s not good for your body if you’re always worrying, so every now and then—when you feel tired—it’s ok to take a break. There’s nothing more precious than life, so take care of yourself and be happy. We’ll be together forever. It has been getting colder lately so please take care of yourself and don’t catch a cold.

Awudu Suraj
12/04/2009

Rally & Formal Statement for Investigation into Suraj’s Death

2010-04-22T12:31:00.001+09:00

On the morning of April 12th, APFS participated in a demonstration to appeal for further investigation into circumstances surrounding the death of Abubakar Awudu Suraj – which happened on March 22nd during a deportation flight.

In the afternoon, two APFS staff members, Suraj’s widow, and a lawyer went to the Chiba Prefectural Police Department and the Chiba District Public Prosecutor’s Office, both of which exercise jurisdiction over the Narita Airport Police, to file petitions for a proper investigation into the incident.

At the Chiba Prefectural Police Department, the Deputy Inspector from the First Investigation Division met with us and informed us as follows.

・This case is currently being investigated by the Narita Airport Police under the direction and cooperation of the Chiba Prefectural Police Department and the District Public Prosecutor’s Office. They do plan to press charges.
・The 10 Immigration officials who had accompanied Suraj on his deportation flight are undergoing questioning by police.
・There is a video of the deportation, and it is currently being reviewed.
・Examination of the deceased’s body is underway, including analysis of blood and internal organs.

APFS spoke with two trial case managers at the Chiba District Public Prosecutor’s Office. However, further details on the case were not available since the detective in charge was not in, and information had not yet been sent to the prosecutors. Therefore, we simply handed in our formal statement demanding proper investigation.

Afterwards we held a press conference, where we explained the case and the day’s actions to members of the media.

What is particularly upsetting about this case is the fact that no explanation whatsoever has been provided to Suraj’s widow and surviving family. If we weren’t engaging the authorities as we have been, Suraj’s widow would not have received any word of what is happening regarding the investigation.

Moreover, it’s unacceptable that Suraj’s widow, at a time of mourning and grief, should have to be taking part in these actions and chase after answers. In fact, she has said that she is losing sleep at night wondering whether the police are even capable of carrying out a proper investigation into the actions of Immigration officials considering that both share a “common bond” as government employees.

PERSONNEL TRAINING: Organizational Development II – Risk Management

2010-02-14T16:53:00.003+09:00

We held our regular personnel training for APFS staff and volunteers.
This time’s topic was “Organizational Developmetn II – Risk Management”, so we invited Ms. Mika Nakahara, the representative of the NPO called Risk Management Office.

Ms. Nakahara told us about the risks of NPOs, and the merits-demerits faced by them.

What’s more, since this year APFS is aiming to aquire legal status as an NPO, we were warned about possible problems, such as volunteer insurance or protection and management of personal data.

By having supported countless foreign residents, we managed to form a trustful relationship with most of them. At the training, we were confirmed that we have to manage risks carefully in the future too, to be able to support many more people in various ways,

Finnally, we would like to express our gratitude to Ms. Nakahara for providing us with such a good chance for learning!

* Our personnal training is sponsored by the Daiwa SRI Fund.

Share Meeting “Multicultural Society as Seen by Foreign Residents”

2010-02-14T16:49:00.005+09:00

At our share meetings, foreign residents have a chance to share their thoughts and feelings about their problems concerning life in Japan.

This was the 6th time in FY2009, and we chose the very broad topic of “Multicultural Society as Seen by Foreign Residents”, but still we manged to share our experiences and thoughts in a very relaxed atmosphere as always.

Since most of this time’s participants were from the Philippines, first we talked about the cultural differences between the Philippines and Japan.

Participants mentioned different aspects of faith, television programmes, speech patterns or other ways of showing respect and finally care homes as a form of elderly life.

Additionally, the topic of prejudice (stereotyping) by Japanese towards foreign residents was also raised.

For example, if some finds a bag of trash violating selective guidelines, in many cases foreign residents are blamed “because they are foreigners”. Occasionally, such untracable trash is intentionally brought in front of their homes.

To eliminate such prejudice against foreigners, we have to focus on communitation with Japanese nationals at work or through participation to community events. According to some opinions, it is also important to let others know that there are also foreign residents like us.

However, the participants basically believe in the saying “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.”, so some of them even said “If you live in Japan, you should adapt to the Japanese. If you cannot take it, maybe you had better go home to the Philippines.”

At first these words may seem harsh, but we must not forget that it is the opinion of people who have been living in Japan for more than ten years successfully. At this share meeting, we felt lucky to hear such meaningful words.

* We receive grants from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government for our share meetings.

Volunteers Desperately WANTED!!!

2010-02-03T16:11:00.012+09:00

We are constantly looking for new volunteers who would help us with our activities!

We welcome anyone who is interested in supporting foreign residents in Japan. We especially need people who can work with computers or come to our office in Oyama, Itabashi on a regular basis on weekdays. We also welcome students without any social experience, so please feel free to contact us if you are interested! We are confident that you can gain many things in our office you could experienece nowhere else!

If you come, you can participate in the following working processes:
・ addressing newsletters etc. to members
・ helping with events such as symposiums, parties etc.
・ translating various kinds of documents
・ administrative work such as answering calls or data input
・ upgradiing our BLOG and homepage
・planning and carrying out outreach activities towards foreign communities

＜About translation＞

Since our activities target foreign residents, translation of a wide range of documents is always necessary.
Not only English, but translation of other languages such as Tagalog, Burmese, Chinese, Korean, Bengali etc. is also important. You may engage in voluntary translation even at home, so please let us know if you feel interested!

＜Emergency recruit＞

At the moment, we are building our database, so a large amount of data input is required. If you could come to the office at least once a week for a couple of hours on weekdays, please help us!

＜We also welcome volunteers with working experience!!!＞

We warmly welcome people who are/were already in epmoyment and would like to make use of their knowledge or experiences and skills at APFS. Specifically, we are looking for volunteers who could help us with PR activities such as web/grahpic design, editing, preparation of press releases, and maintenance of IT equipment, IT network construction etc. Since foreign resident support is seriously lacking in Japan, there are many-many tasks APFS has to acomplish. Please contribute to the globally developing civil society with your professional skill! We are waiting for you!

Monthly Daiwa SRI Funds Internal Training

2010-01-17T18:52:00.001+09:00

We had a monthly training session targeted at our staff and volunteer members today. The topic of the training was “ Financial Reporting for Authorised NPOs”. We had Mr. Oichi, certified tax accountant, from Venture Shien Zeiritsuhoujin as a guest lecturer this time.
APFS has been preparing to become an authorised NPO since last year. The experienced tax accountant, in today’s training session, explained to us what financial reports are required for an authorised NPO.
We do produce financial report regularly but we are not accounting or tax experts. Hence, today’s training was very helpful for us since we could ask many questions to the lecturer that relates to our daily operations.
Thank you Oichi sensei!

*We receive financial support from “Daiwa SRI fund”.

Special Permission for 22 Families. Emergency Meeting & New Years Party

2010-01-17T17:35:00.000+09:00

Following the training for our staff members, we had a briefing session for our members demanding special permission to stay in Japan (zaitoku) to the Japanese government. “100 days action” is the campaign that APFS conducted last year for 17 families that are in need of zaitoku. On top of these 17 families we now have 5 more families to support.

When the guideline pertaining to special permission to stay in Japan was revised last July, we anticipated that the change will bring positive concequences to our members. In reality, however, the circumstances surrounding our members are still tough and some of our members have been re-detained by Immigration authorities after the revision of the guideline.

We say we are facing predicament, but it is also true that some of our members finally and eventually obtained the permission in December last year and January this year. We still have lots of things to do for other members and we have no time being depressed! In the breifing session we had, our members who obtained zaitoku lately made speech and inspired our other members. May all our members get zaitoku following these jubilant families!

Happy New Year to Everyone!

2010-01-13T15:02:00.002+09:00

Already more than ten days have passed since New Year’s Eve… We are sending our New Year’s greetings to everyone!

Sorry for being so late with the updates. We hope that we may expect your support this year too!

As soon as January 7th, one undocumented Filipino family under our support managed to receive Special Permit for Residence♪

We are glad to have such good news in this season. At the same time, other undocumented families are facing detention or deportation. Building on these good news, we would like to continue our fight this year! We need your help too!

Special Permit at the End of the Year!

2009-12-27T15:14:00.008+09:00

In recent months, the re-detention of undocumented foreign members followed one another. Many families had to spend the seasons without a father…

In the midst of these sad times we received important news on Christmas Eve! An Iranian family under our support was granted Special Permit for Residence! This family has spent the last three to four years without knowing their future, but finally this year they can expect a peaceful New Year☆ We are really happy for them…

Thanks to these fortunate events, APFS staff also feels empowered! We will continue our fight next year!

Happy New Year to All!

It was Fun!

2009-12-21T16:20:00.006+09:00

At APFS, we had our annual Christmas Party!

This year we had both good times and bad times, but this time of the year we always gather and forget about everything!

We enjoyed songs, games, present exchange etc. But as every year, R-rated games were the biggest hit. Unfortunately, I cannot write about them here… If your are interested, you just have to come and visit us next year☆

Participants brought delicious meals from all over the world♪ We felt like in paradise with our stomachs filled.

Unfortunately, our work at APFS usually has to do something with the dark side of life. At the same, we feel lucky at times like this when we can spend time in borderless fun.

Handing Out Food

2009-12-21T15:30:00.017+09:00

Originally two young members of APFS staff started this BLOG… For me, this is the first time to write.
I feel the pressure, so I will try to write some more from now on.
It is not exactly the latest news, but this is the report of our food distribution at the end of November.
We are in the middle of an unprecedented recession.

The living conditions of undocumented foreigners are also getting worse…
We thought that we also have to do something, so we started our food support project at APFS.
We received help from “Second Harvest Japan” in the form of almost 300 kg of rice, beverages, and snacks for our foreign families.

The rice included the famous brand of “Hitomebore”, and we had cookies from a famous coffee shop chain. It was more than satisfying.

Instead of one-sided distribution by Japanese staff, rather receiving foreign members took the lead and shared the food.
At first we did not know how to divide the 300 kg of rice, but Filipino and Burmese members solved the problem in a swift and practical way. Everything goes smoother if we help each other!
Those families, who received from the food, told us that it really helps and that they are grateful.
I would like to thank everyone who took part in this food support project!
Thank you all!

“Honestly, we would like to work and help ourselves,”
Many undocumented foreigners have such thoughts.

However, various barriers exist for them because of their status.
Still, it is also true that they have children.
These children may be hungry all the time.
That is something we do not want to let happen.
On the other hand, we also think that it is not favorable to continue only with food distribution in the long term.
Even if it is difficult, I believe that everyone should find a way to self-reliance.
The damage inflicted by this year’s recession seems to be tremendous.
We are still in an emergency state.
Hence, I think that we need to keep up with handing out food for the time being.
Next time, I will report on the following.

Iranian Reunion!?

2009-12-20T16:29:00.003+09:00

Last Friday evening, we gathered with old Iranian members who received Special Permits for Residence in the past. By now, all of them have stable jobs in Japan, and their children go to universities or work. They have decent and happy lives. Some of them do not have the chance to meet regularly, so they met actually after 7-8 years, having nostalgic talks. We originally planned to gather at an Iranian restaurant in Roppongi, but could not get a reservation, so we had to go to an Indian place instead run by the same owner. In the end, we had food delivered from the Iranian restaurant. Lamb barbeque and stew, garlic yoghurt etc., Iranian food is not very spicy, hence easily digestible to anyone. It was delicious♪

Seeing that they live happily after all the hardship, we also gained strength from them.

Volunteer BLOG

2009-12-16T14:41:00.002+09:00

Greetings to everyone! I am a 4th grade collage student doing volunteer work at APFS☆

I was asked if I want to write to this BLOG. I am a bit confused, but I will try to do my best!
I learned about APFS, when we visited the office with my our collage class♪

Since then, I have been keeping up the relationship as a volunteer☆

At my class, I originally studied about immigration issues in Japan.

Next, a few words about my work…

Preparing flyers for events, editing this BLOG, it sounds big, but in fact it consits only of simple tasks☆

Well, unfortunately maybe that is all I can do (‐‐;)
As you can see from this BLOG, we have many interesting events at APFS☆

Many things are still new for me, but I would like to continue with my activities together with everyone♪

International Marriage of Filipino Women

2009-12-02T16:17:00.000+09:00

Today we welcomed Prof. Hiroshi Harashima from the Japan Lutheran College who held a lecture on the present conditions regarding international marriage in the Philippines.

In the Philippines, Filipino women who marry Japanese men are required to undergo a guidance before moving to Japan. At this guidance, they are provided with necessary information for settlement in Japan. The re-entry permit system, the conditions for the acquisition of permanent residence, double nationality of children, useful knowledge on Japanese marriage life (characteristics of Japanese husbands (?) or getting on well with the in-laws etc.) are discussed.

The Japanese government on the arrival side should learn from this type of support by the Filipino government on the departure side. For example, we need to improve the welcoming system on the municipal level, such as conducting initial orientations during foreigner registration. We also belive that NGOs supporting foreigners like APFS must also consider this and search for new fields of activities.

* This lecture was sponsored by the “Daiwa SRI Fund”.

Happy Birthday!

2009-12-02T16:04:00.001+09:00

We opened a birthday party for Mr. Atsushi Nishida who has been engaded in the support of people from Myanmar for many-many years. Mr. Nishida taught Japanese for more than 2,000 people and provided consultative support too. He is already over 80, but still continues his energetic activities. For example, once in a week he visits peoples from Myanmar who are detained in the Immigration Bureau in Shinagawa.

At APFS we were also helped out many times in various situations by Mr. Nishida. We hope that our good relationship will continue for many more years in the future!

2nd Japanese Cooking Lesson

2009-12-02T15:45:00.004+09:00

On November 15th (Sun) we held our second cooking lesson. This time’s menu consisted of miso soup from kombu and dried shiitake stock with Japanese littleneck shellfish and komatsuna, mushroom rice prepared in ceramic pot and salad with yuzu and black pepper dressing. While fighting for opening the shellfish, we could learn the basics of Japanese cousine.

The participants were most satisfied not only with the miso soup but also with the rice which turned out to be rich and tasteful in spite of the fact that we used only natural ingredients. As a form of Japanese dessert, we baked sweet potatos in a pan which was also a great success. Unexpectedly, it might have been this time’s most popular dish.

This was the last time for Japanese cooking. With it, our Asian cooking lessons which we began from June ended in fame. Many thanks to all participants!

In Korea!

2009-12-02T15:25:00.001+09:00

We visited immigrant supporting organizations in Korea.

During our four days and three nights we visited five NGOs and one university. We conducted hearings on each organization’s activities and exchanged information on recent circumstances of immigrants in Korea and Japan.

Korean immigration policies are very similar to Japanese ones, so several times during our discussions we felt similarities and sympathy as supporters in the same situation. For example, in Japan the campaing for decreasing the number of undocumented foreign residents by half in five years started in 2003, while the same five year campaign launched in Korea last year. Under the current Lee Myung-bak administration the cooperative relationship between the government and NGOs which was established during the previous Roh Moo-hyun administration collapsed. In fact, many NGO staff complained that these are difficult times for support organizations. (However, the immigration policies of the new Japanese administration are still unknown.)

Unfortunately, during our stay we had to face with the unusually cold weather. The maximum temperature on one of the four days was only 5oC. Thanks to the warm rice congee and Jjigae, traditional tea and other delicious Korean food, we managed to have a satisfying trip despite these harsh weather conditions.

ASIA FAIR Held on October 30th!

2009-12-02T15:03:00.009+09:00

Actiually, this upgrade was quite late. Sorry about that...

APFS held its annual event, the Asia Fair on October 30th (Sun)!

The actual program started at 11:00, but our staff and volunteers gathered and began with the preparations from 9:00. In the rain and chilling cold all of them worked on the tents and their booths. Since only a few visitors came before noon, we were a bit worried, but in the end after the rain stopped in the afternoon we managed to reach the yearly average.

We had food stalls from the Philippines, Myanmar, Bangaldesh, Pakistan, China, Iran, Korea and Hungary (special participation), so we could experience each country’s flavors. In the meantime, on the stage bands and singers from Bangladesh, the Philippines, Iran and Burma were performing and visitors enjoyed themselves dancing and singing.

APFS members from different countries with various backgrounds support the fair every year from behind the scenes. At home they are preparing foods and trying all kinds of tactics to sell it. We are always amazed to see how they work together and make the Asia Fair a success. Hopefully, the Asia Fair will be held with the same multicultural power next year too, so we are waiting for everyone to visit the fair again!

Learning about Disaster Prevention

2009-11-29T14:34:00.006+09:00

Today, we had our “Share Meeting” sponsored by the metropolitan government.

This time’s topic was “Disaster Prevention”. First we welcomed Mr. Yamamoto from Kyojukon in Shinjuku, who spoke about the basics of disaster prevention. We continued with a free discussion by participants.

Surprisingly many people knew where the evacuation areas were in case of an earthquake. Some participants even had experience in using AEDs or fire extinguishers during evacuation drills at their workplace or at their children’s schools.

Earthquakes are common in the home countries of the participants, for example in the Philippines, in China or in Iran, but they do not seem to have evacuation drills.

Special Permit for Residence and Provisional Release!

2009-11-28T14:30:00.003+09:00

We deliver good news this week!

Two Filipino families who supported by APFS received Special Permits for residence. When they called the APFS office, the voice of the family members was more than impressive. Doing this line of work, we have to face many sad things, but moments like this are really fortunate ones…

The provisional release of a Burmese female member, who was detained while applying for refugee status, was also approved. She said delightfully “Today I came to the office, but it is strange to walk around freely after three months…” In comparison with her dark facial expression during our meetings while she was detained, now she was really glowing.

Cooking Japanese Foods!

2009-10-23T18:12:00.001+09:00

On October 18th (Sun), we held the first Japanese food cooking class in this year!

People from the Philippines, Brazil, Myanmar, and the United States took part in and enjoyed this event.
The main recipe for this time was teriyaki-yellowtail (Buri no teriyaki) and freeze-dried Tofu (Koya-dofu).
Even we Japanese staff from APFS had not tried to make “dried foods” like Koya-dofu, so we also learned a lot from this interesting class!
Participants enjoyed talking not only with a teacher but also with other participants:
especially “Moms” were chatting a lot about box lunch in Japan (Obento). They said that in their country they had never seen a box lunch which includes such many foods like Japanese ones.
Now we learned, “different places have different box lunches”. Interesting!

Wanna join this class?
This class is opened for anyone, so feel free to contact us: 03-3964-8739.

==================================
*Next class
November 15th (Sun)
13:30~
at Narimasu Shakai Kyoiku Kaikan
(成増社会教育会館).

the main recipe:
-Miso soup (cooked from Dashi)
-rice boiled with soy sauce (Takikommi Gohan)
-also some side dishes
==================================

We are looking forward to seeing you :)

Minister Fukushima Mizuho, we expect your commitment!

2009-10-23T18:06:00.001+09:00

On October 15th, we and a foreigner staff participated in an event which commemorating publish of Mizuho Fukulshima’s book, the special mission minister of the Cabinet office.

She mainly takes charge of consumer administration, safety of foods, equal rights for men and women, and declining birth rate.
In addition, she also brings “ten topics” for her policy, including a “policy for foreigners living in Japan”

First, minister Fukushima talked with Mr. Yuasa, who started to work in the Strategy room in the Cabinet office, and then she delivered speech about her policy.
Her speech was concentrating on safety of foods and declining birth rate as we had expected.
In terms of foreigners in Japan, she just said “I’ve dealt with problems of Japanese Brazilian, and then…” which was kind of disappointing for us.
But what interesting was that there were lots of NGO’s booths there, and those showed easy-to-communicate atmosphere on this event.

We hope this new administration and Minister Fukushima will consider rights of foreigners seriously for making their policy.

Cultural exchange in neighborhood meeting :)

2009-10-23T17:59:00.001+09:00

On October 12th, we held “Share Meeting”!

This meeting is aimed at foreigners living in Japan, giving them opportunities to talk about challenges they’ve faced in Japan and look for how to overcome.
This series have been held irregularly since the last year.

The topis for this time was "Communication in PTA (Parent-Teacher Association) and neighborhood meeting (町内会)"

It is said that these days even Japanese are likely to hesitate to attend neighborhood meeting.
But many participants in this “Share Meeting” take part in their neighborhood meeting, and enjoy some events like summer festivals as an opportunity to know Japanese culture.
One participant said “My kids can make friends with children in neighbors, and I also can make friends with neighbors”.
She had a positive impression toward neighborhood meeting.

*This meeting is supported by the administration of Tokyo (“東京都在住外国人支援事業助成”)

APFS 15th ASIAN FAIR

2009-10-13T21:49:00.000+09:00

15th ASIAN FAIR that you don’t know in “oyama”

date:10/25(sun)11:00～17:00 (plan) *Sprinkle carry on

place:Square in front of Itabashi Tax Office

traffic:5 min walk from Tobutojo Line “Oyama”station

*map http://www.tax.metro.tokyo.jp/jimusho/t_itabashi.htm

content
■□ASIAN FOOD STALL VILLAGE■□
we can meke you happy by asian taste at once!
Philippine,Burma,Bangladesh,Pakistan,Chine,Itan,
Hungary(friendly guest appearance)etc.

■□ASIAN STAGE■□
○Introduce culture
○Music co-star with Bangladesh,Philippine,Pakistan and Itan’s bans singer
○ Dance Burma and Philippine’s Folk dance (you can experience)

■□INFORMATION FLEA MARKET■□
Early person winning!!
Challenge to Face to face negotiation!!

■□INFORMATION & VISA CONSULTATION■□
We introduce APFS’s action.
We can recived to consultation about VISA and life.

host:Asian People’s Friendship Society(APFS)

partnaership:Yuza Oyama Shopping Street Promotion Union etc

support:Itabashi Culture and International Exchange Foundation

*We take place to besubsidized by

「Central Industrial Bank’s Subvention program 2009」

inquiry:APFS TEL 03-3964-8739

Petitioning in Ikebukuro

2009-10-13T21:45:00.002+09:00

September 23rd was the last day of the holidays.

We were in Ikebukuro gathering signatures for a petition.
We were joined by 18 unofficial resident families that are seeking special residency permission. We gathered approximately 300 signatures in about an hour!

About 20 children also participated. They handed out leaflets and asked people for signatures.

Elementary school students actively participated, but it seems that junior high school students are hesitant to start a conversation with strangers.

On a side note, although they do not have a “visa” at the moment, they have already obtained a temporary release, and have requested the immigration bureau for temporary permission to travel, which enables them to participate in these activities.

Myanmese cooking class

2009-10-13T21:41:00.002+09:00

We held a Myanmese cooking class on September 13 (Fri).

The menu consisted of Myanmese style noodles and coconut jelly.

The Myanmese teacher managed to communicate the Japansese participants what the taste of real Myanmese grandmothers’ cooking is like.

Although the participants could adjust spices themselves according to their own taste, still in some cases the proper amount was not easy to know, so some people ended up with too hot and spicy noodles.
So it has to be stated that we were sweating, but in a way one can easily become even addicted to it. After cooking we continued with cultural introduction.

The program included performances of the Myanmese harp and traditional dances, as well las a small lecture on the country.

For foreigners! We are waiting for applicants to our Japanese Cooking Classes

2009-10-13T21:34:00.003+09:00

APFS is planning Japanese Cooking Classes for foreigners according to the following schedule♪

If You are interested, please contact APFS!

Date and time:

alltogether two occasions on October 18 (Sun) and on November 15 (Sun), 1:30 PM–4:30 PM

Venue: Narimasu Social Education Hall,　Kitchen Room (five minutes walk from Narimasu station of Toubu Tojo Line or Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)

Program:
1st time* We are making koyadofu (freeze dried tofu) and other Japanese side dishes
2nd time* We are making miso soup from real dashi
Fee: 800 JPY per occasion
Contact: APFS 03-3964-8739 or GZL07472@nifty.ne.jp

* These photos were taken on previous occasions of our Japanese Cooking Class (making of home made miso)

Introduction

2009-10-13T21:29:00.004+09:00

Hi everybody.

This blog is for reporting on the daily activities of the APFS staff.

I hope it will be of some use in letting you know about the status of our foreigner assistance activities here in Japan.